On Saturday, May 24, 2025, the BAL 2025 Nile Conference continued with high-intensity games on matchday 5. Nairobi City Thunder from Kenya opened the day with a commanding victory over South Africa’s Made By Basketball, securing their first win by a score of 85-76.
APR BBC saw the return of Aliou Diarra, who had been sidelined due to injury, boosting their lineup for the game. The team started strong as Chasson Jermar Randle sank a three-point shot, signaling their determination. Mohamed B. Abdourahman Sadi of Al Ahli Tripoli quickly countered with a three-pointer, keeping the competition intense. Both teams displayed resilience, refusing to fall behind in a closely contested first quarter.
With just two minutes left in the opening quarter, Al Ahli Tripoli began to pull ahead. However, APR BBC closed the gap before the Libyan side, led by standout player Jaylen Adams, ended the quarter with a slim lead at 28-26.
The second quarter saw Al Ahli Tripoli extending their lead. Key contributions from Jaylen Adams proved crucial as the team built momentum. APR BBC fought back with impactful performances by Obadiah Noel and Ntore Habimana, who scored vital points, but it wasn’t enough to even the score. The first half closed with Al Ahli Tripoli leading 53-49.
The third quarter further tested APR BBC’s defense, as players like Jaylen Adams and Jean Jacques Boissy continued to shine for Al Ahli Tripoli. Their dominance widened the gap, leaving APR BBC trailing significantly at 84-70 by the end of the quarter.
In the final quarter, APR BBC intensified their efforts to overturn the deficit. Axel Olenga Mpoyo led a spirited charge, contributing key points as the team fought to narrow the margin. Despite their valiant effort, the game concluded with a nail-biting 106-102 victory for Al Ahli Tripoli.
This defeat marked APR BBC’s third consecutive loss in the tournament, following earlier defeats against Al Ahli Tripoli BBC in the first leg and Made By Basketball. The match drew significant attention, with distinguished attendees such as President Kagame witnessing the dramatic faceoff.
As the BAL 2025 Nile Conference approaches its conclusion, tomorrow’s fixtures promise more excitement. Al Ahli Tripoli BBC will face MBB at 2:30 PM, while Nairobi City Thunder will meet APR BBC at 5:30 PM.
APR BBC suffered their sixth consecutive loss.
APR BBC lost once again in the presence of President Kagame.